Award-winning wine. Check. Gorgeous scenery. Check. Awesome family activities. Check. When it comes to a memorable getaway that offers something for your whole crew, Paso Robles checks all the boxes. This charming Central California Coast town is the perfect spot to unwind amidst rolling hills, beautiful sights, and wineries galore. Here are ten reasons Paso Robles is great for a family getaway:
It’s an Easy Road Trip between SF and LA
Whether you live in Southern or Northern California, Paso Robles is a road trip worth taking. It’s almost exactly between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and just half an hour from the Pacific Ocean. No matter which direction you’re coming from, it’s a wine country adventure that’s easy to get to by car.
And Speaking of Wine Country…
This down-to-earth town is the kind of place your kids will love, just as much as you love sipping delicious vino. With over 300 wineries, there’s no shortage of wineries that welcome kiddos of all ages to play cornhole, color, enjoy “grape juice tastings,” crush their parents at bocce ball, explore caves, frolic in nature and more. There are breweries and distilleries, too. Wine enthusiasts… this town is for you.
There Are a Variety of Places to Stay
No matter your lodging style or budget, there’s a place that’s just right for every family in Paso Robles. From boutique hotels to RV resorts to private chateaus, every setting brings a unique vibe to your vacation. Stay downtown for walking access to restaurants, shops, and more. Cava Robles’ luxury RV resort is known for spacious and private full hookup RV sites or fully furnished chalets for a “glamping” vibe. There are pools, a kid splash pad, on-site wine tastings and a wellness center at this pet-friendly gem. If you’d rather stay in town, try Hotel Cheval for sophisticated quarters and some extra special treats like a candy bar in the library and an extensive s’mores menu (yep, a s’mores menu!). Another great spot to feel right at home is at the family-owned Adelaide Inn, full of special touches. Kids will love the outdoor pool, micro golf and complimentary homemade cookies!
Start planning your family’s trip to Paso Robles today!
Experience Awe-Inspiring Art
Snag your tickets to Light at Sensorio, a solar-powered walk-through installation by artist Bruce Munro. Field of Light spans 15 acres and features 60,000 illuminated glass orbs lit by fiber-optics. And his newest exhibit, Light Towers is composed of 6-foot-tall towers including 17,000 wine bottles to celebrate Paso Robles’ wine country. Colors morph to music, creating a breathtaking experience for all. Come after dark and stroll through the glowing landscape. Thursday is Family Night, and children’s tickets (12 and under) are half price.
You Can See the Sights on Horseback
Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, Central Coast Trailrides has a horse for any skill level. A one-of-a-kind adventure for families, where kids big enough get to handle their own horse and explore the Central Coast’s scenic areas. Head down lush trails, take in gorgeous views and saddle up for some fun.
Cool Off at the Ravine
This waterpark is a family favorite thanks to the wave pool, Kickback Kreek lazy river, extreme water slides and “Tadpool” kiddie pool. Rent a cabana as your home base for the day, complete with lounge chairs, a dining table and food and drink service. Live bands perform on most summer Saturdays. And you can enjoy adult beverages at the Tiki Bar and Grill. Thrill-seekers: be sure to check out the park’s newest slide, the Sidewinder.
Start planning your family’s trip to Paso Robles today!
There’s Fun at the Fair!
Get your corn dog and carnival fix… Paso Robles is home to the annual California Mid-State Fair, which runs July 21-August 1st. Kids (and kids at heart!) love the rides, livestock, musical performances and cotton candy.
Everyone Feels at Home for the Holidays
Family-friendly events are always fun in this idyllic, historic town. During Halloween, visit a charming pumpkin patch, hop on a hayride, get lost in a corn maze and go trick-or-treating while enjoying food and music downtown. Great restaurants host fantastic Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. And all throughout town, parades, festive parties and light shows bring delightful holiday cheer.
You Can Go Where the Wild Things Are
Book an all-access tour at Conservation Ambassadors’ Zoo to You (they’re not open to the public!). From lemurs to kangaroos, otters to bald eagles, you’ll learn all about rescue animals from all over the globe. Known as “animal ambassadors,” the wild/exotic residents here were once displaced, abused, injured or abandoned. Kids can learn all about what it takes to provide them with a loving, safe home!
Get Your Wiggles Out… Outside
Hiking, biking, ziplining, golfing, playing at Uptown Family park, visiting North Central Coast State beaches, marveling at wildflower super blooms on the hillside… no matter what you do, there is breathtaking beauty at every turn in Paso Robles!
Start planning your family’s trip to Paso Robles today!
